In the fall and winter, most people decide to stay inside. But why should you have to spend your time indoors when you have a great living space outside? To set up your outdoor space for the lower temperatures, check out the best patio heaters. The right heater will keep you warm and make your patio look more complete. We've compared some of the top patio heaters and found which one belongs in your yard. Find out which one reigns supreme.

PRODUCT

FEATURES

PAMAPIC Patio Heater - $$title$$

PAMAPIC Patio Heater

  • 46,000 BTUs
  • Pulse igniter
  • 18 foot range

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Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG - $$title$$

Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG

  • 40,000 BTUs
  • Quartz glass tube
  • 91 inches tall

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AmazonBasics Commercial Propane 46,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater - $$title$$

AmazonBasics Commercial Propane 46,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater

  • Easy push start
  • High heat output
  • Multiple finishes and designs available

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Legacy Heating CAPH-7-SS Patio Heater - $$title$$

Legacy Heating CAPH-7-SS Patio Heater

  • 47,000 BTUs
  • 88 inches tall
  • Switch from low to high output

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Dr. Infrared Heater 1500W - $$title$$

Dr. Infrared Heater 1500W

  • Wall mounting bracket
  • Three options for heat output
  • Uses electricity

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Patio Heater FAQ

How do you know which patio heater is right for you? Before you make the purchase, you should take the time to learn more about patio heaters. Then, you can pick the one that's best for your home and your needs.

Are Patio Heaters Worth It?

Unless you buy a tiny propane heater that can barely warm a fly, your patio heater won't be cheap. So is it really worth spending your hard-earned money on a heater? The simple answer is a resounding yes.

A quality patio heater is a simple way to add more living space to your home. If you live in a cool climate, your living space is restricted to the indoors most of the year. By having a patio heater, you extend your living space to the patio. You get more square footage without having to make a new addition to your home. Another benefit to a patio heater is the aesthetic value. If you buy a heater that looks as good as it works, you'll add style to your home. Having a stylish heater is like having a piece of art.

Finally, your heater makes your home perfect for entertaining guests. What's better than having your friends and family sitting around a heater? If you want to make your home a great space for people to gather, a heater is a worthwhile investment.

Are Pyramid Patio Heaters Any Good?

Pyramid patio heaters are popular for their stylish look. In that sense, they are perfect for those who want an artistic, stylish heater. Generally, pyramid heaters are less efficient than other types of heaters. Therefore, they aren't the best option if you care more about output than style. Some pyramid heaters are more efficient than others. So, you may be able to find a pyramid heater that can warm your space.

How Do I Choose a Patio Heater?

pyramid patio heaters outdoors nighttime

When picking out a heater, there are a few details you should consider. First, you need to think about the side of the heated area. For a large space, you need a heater with a powerful output.

You also need to consider the safety of your heater. Does it meet the minimum safety requirements? Your heater of choice should have been tested by a reputable organization. For added safety, look for a heater that automatically shuts off when it falls. This can prevent a fire and keep your home safe.

Another consideration is your weather. If you often experience high winds in your yard, you need a heater that has a heavy base. Otherwise, your heater could tip over and break.

Finally, you should think about portability. Do you plan on moving your heater around? If so, you should get a heater that moves easily. Wheels that are easy to maneuver are always beneficial, as you can slide your heater around. When you have guests over, you can set up your patio as needed.

What is the Most Efficient Patio Heater?

As far as efficiency goes, natural gas and propane are your best options. They make more heat with less energy. However, some models are more efficient than others.

Do Outdoor Patio Heaters Really Work?

If you want an outdoor patio heater to give you a warm place to gather in your yard, then you're in luck. Most heaters are effective at warming up a small space. However, heaters do have their limitations. You shouldn't expect your heater to keep your whole yard warm.

The best patio heaters have powerful flames that extend several feet in any direction. But low quality heaters have a limited output and only have small ranges. Before you buy a heater, you should consider how far its heat will travel. Additionally, you should know that no patio heater is powerful enough to warm your whole patio.

Can You Use a Patio Heater Under a Covered Patio?

If you have a covered patio, you probably don't want to have an open fire. But you can still have a patio heater. Electric patio heaters can be used in almost any space. If you have a natural gas heater, you should make sure your space has plenty of air flow.

Which Type of Patio Heater is Best?

If your looking for the best patio heater, you should consider everything you're looking for from the product. Regardless of what you want, some heaters are better than others. To find out which heater is the best, read our comparison of the top heaters. You'll be sure to find one that meets all your needs.

The Best Patio Heaters

Best Easy-to-Use Patio Heater

PAMAPIC Patio Heater

    If you want a patio heater with a high output and ease of use, this is the product for you.

      Pros:

    • 46,000 BTU output
    • Pulse igniter
    • Cover included
      Cons:

    • Difficult assembly

This patio heater has a built-in door that makes it easy to hide and change the propane tank. With 46,000 BTUs, the heater has a range of you to 18 feet. It puts out enough heat to warm you and your friends or family.

This heater is equipped with several great features. For instance, it has a pulse igniter. It also has tip over protection that shuts the heater off if it falls. To make the product easier to move, the manufacturer provided wheels. You can easily move it around your patio to meet your changing needs. A pulse igniter makes it simple to light the heater, which saves you from the frustration of failed lighting attempts.

Unlike most other patio heaters, this product comes with a cover. You can save money and be sure that the cover will fit your heater the way it should. If you want a patio heater with a high output and ease of use, this is the product for you.

Most Stylish-but-Functional Patio Heater

Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG

    If you're interested in buying a stylish pyramid heater, the Hiland HLDSO1 will satisfy you.

      Pros:

    • Modern appearance
    • Quartz glass tube
      Cons:

    • Assembly manual is unclear

If you're interested in buying a stylish pyramid heater, the Hiland HLDSO1 will satisfy you. It has a hammered exterior and a modern appearance. Equipped with wheels, this product is relatively easy to move around despite weighing 65 pounds.

The heater is 91 inches tall and puts out enough heat to cover ten square feet. With a heat output of 40,000 BTUs, it's a powerful product. Unlike some other models, this heater is easy to start up. If it falls, the auto shut off tilt valve keeps you safe.

One of the highlights of this product is the quartz glass tube. When the heater is on, this product has an attractive display. In addition to keeping everyone warm, it will be a centerpiece. The heater relies on a 20-pound tank, which lasts about eight to ten hours. It's a combination of style and function.

Most Stylish Patio Heater on a Budget

AmazonBasics Commercial Propane 46,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater

      Pros:

    • Stylish design in many colors
    • Push ignition
    • Inexpensive
      Cons:

    • Replacement parts hard to find

The AmazonBasics Commercial Patio Heater is ideal for those who want a durable and aesthetically-pleasing heater that comes in an array of designs without breaking the bank. Available in eight finishes and standard with a suite of safety and ease features, this is a great option for large outdoor spaces with a specific aesthetic. It's 89 inches tall and features a safety auto shut-off tilt valve that prevents accidental fires, a waterbox for adding weight to the base to avoid toppling in wind, and a convenient wheel assembly for easy mobility.

This heater dishes out a lot of heat, and operating this heater is simple, thanks to the push-button ignition. Once you light it, you can control the heat with a dial. Even at low settings, the heater works well in outdoor spaces, and can run steadily for more than 12 hours on one tank of propane.

Best High-Heat Portable Patio Heater

Legacy Heating CAPH-7-SS Patio Heater

      Pros:

    • 47,000 BTUs
    • Easy controls
      Cons:

    • Not durable

This heater is 88 inches tall and made of stainless steel. Although it's not one of the more stylish heaters available, it is one of the more powerful and efficient heaters. It puts out 47,000 BTUs, which is enough heat to keep you very warm. When you have an outdoor party, this product is up to the task of keeping everyone warm. 

There's a convenient switch that allows you to change the heater from low output to high output. With this easy control, you can customize your heating experience. Lighting this heater is extremely easy, which prevents you from struggling in front of your friends or family. It features a double igniter that's easily accessible.

Equipped with wheels, the Legacy Patio Heater is portable. You can move it when you need, wherever you need it. If you want one of the best patio heaters for heat output, the Legacy Patio Heater is a great option. 

Best Small Patio Heater

Dr. Infrared Heater 1500W

    If you're looking for a patio heater that works either outside or inside, the Dr. Infrared Heater is a top choice.

      Pros:

    • Hangs from wall
    • Clean and odorless heat
      Cons:

    • Uses a lot of energy

If you're looking for a patio heater that works either outside or inside, the Dr. Infrared Heater is a top choice. It's unlike the other heaters on this list in that it is not meant to be used standing. Instead, it comes with a wall and ceiling mounting bracket. You can hang it wherever is convenient. While it's not much to look at, the heater can remain out of sight if you position it right. It takes up much less space than other patio heaters.

This product puts out infrared heat, which is clean and odorless. It relies on your electricity to run, so you do need access to an outlet. Once the unit is plugged in, you can use the included remote to turn it on and off. You can also use the remote to switch heat settings; there are three options for heat output. 

Made with weather-proof materials, this heater can handle the elements. It's the perfect option for those who don't have space for a large heater on their patio.

Ready to Stay Warm?

If you want to start warming up, you should pick out your patio heater. But which one is the best? The Thermo Tiki Patio Heater does it all, and it's suitable for almost all uses. If you're using it for decorative purposes, you won't be disappointed. It puts on an impressive display when it's lit and it looks chic when it's not in use. Meanwhile, the powerful output of the heater makes it ideal for cold nights. You don't need to be curled up next to the heater to feel the warmth. It's also very safe and meets all safety requirements. Finally, the heater is portable. Whatever your plans are, this heater can get there job done.